DO-GOODER Synonyms: 32 Similar and Opposite Words

do-gooder

noun

Definition of do-gooder

as in optimist

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of do-gooder Boring dad; feisty mom; rich do-gooder; striving newcomer; MAGA one; MAGA two. — Los Angeles Times, 23 Apr. 2026 The shift away from reliability suggests a sly reversal of sympathies from the artist to the do-gooder sibling. — Elaine Blair, Harpers Magazine, 24 Feb. 2026 The notion of a virtuous do-gooder saving the day is too simplistic for this story. — Shirley Li, The Atlantic, 5 Feb. 2026 JPMorgan Chase’s Strategic and Resiliency Initiative is do-gooder capital to suit the latest trends. — Adam Lashinsky, Washington Post, 6 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for do-gooder

Recent Examples of Synonyms for do-gooder

Noun

The optimists in our midst are hoping for a big improvement on that and that one or both of them will land in the nine-to-16 range, but more than half of y’all are thinking bottom half of the league, and that’s more defensible.

— Josh Kendall, New York Times, 16 July 2026
Finally, of course, there are the ambitious optimists, people betting that fresh leadership will shake CNN out of it slumber (and give themselves a high-profile role to help achieve those goals).

— Alex Weprin, HollywoodReporter, 14 July 2026

Definition of optimist

Noun

Alexi’s tutu-twirling positivity should not be confused with Pollyanna, nor her quirky insights with naiveté.

— Rich Roll, Outside, 26 Aug. 2025
During the festival, those attending can enjoy a selection of beer, wine and cocktails from Pollyanna Brewing & Distilling, along with offerings from other local St. Charles breweries, according to the release.

— Aurora Beacon-News, Chicago Tribune, 15 Aug. 2025

Definition of Pollyanna

Noun

The primary focus will be on manager Thomas Tuchel, the German perfectionist who drew the ire of his nation after being critical of the Three Lions’ performance in the quarterfinal win over Norway.

— Kyle Feldscher, CNN Money, 16 July 2026
Angela, a high-strung perfectionist, spends the day meticulously preparing dinner and decorating the apartment for the impromptu gathering.

— Olivia Singh, Forbes.com, 26 June 2026

Definition of perfectionist

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do-good

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“Do-gooder.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/do-gooder. Accessed 22 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of do-gooder

noun

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